SoftBank Pepper Review 2026: The Complete Guide to the World's Most Famous Social Robot
Looking for an honest SoftBank Pepper review? You've come to the right place. Pepper was once the poster child for humanoid robotics — a friendly, tablet-chested robot designed to greet customers, teach students, and keep patients company. But in 2026, Pepper's story has taken dramatic turns: production halted, its manufacturer went bankrupt, and its assets were acquired by a Chinese tech company. So where does that leave Pepper today, and is it still worth buying?
In this comprehensive SoftBank Pepper review, we cover everything from Pepper's full specifications and real-world performance to its turbulent history, current availability in 2026, how it compares to modern competitors like the Unitree G1 and NAO, and whether it still makes sense as a purchase. Whether you're a researcher, educator, business owner, or robotics enthusiast, this is the most thorough Pepper evaluation you'll find anywhere.
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What Is the SoftBank Pepper Robot?
Pepper is a semi-humanoid robot originally developed by Aldebaran Robotics (a French company) and manufactured by SoftBank Robotics. Standing 120 cm (about 4 feet) tall and weighing 28 kg (62 lbs), Pepper was designed from the ground up for one purpose: social interaction with humans.
Unlike industrial robots built for factories, or household robots like vacuums, Pepper was conceived as a companion and assistant for public-facing environments. It features an expressive face with LED eyes, articulated arms and hands, a 10.1-inch touchscreen tablet on its chest, and three omnidirectional wheels for smooth movement across flat surfaces.
First unveiled in June 2014, Pepper quickly became the world's most recognizable social robot. It was deployed in SoftBank mobile stores across Japan, then expanded to retail locations, hospitals, hotels, airports, schools, and cruise ships worldwide. At its peak, over 27,000 units were manufactured.
The History of Pepper: From Launch to Liquidation
Understanding Pepper's history is essential context for any SoftBank Pepper review in 2026. Here's the full timeline:
2012–2014: Origins
Pepper was developed by Aldebaran Robotics, the same French company behind the popular NAO educational robot. SoftBank Group acquired Aldebaran in 2012 and poured resources into creating a consumer-facing humanoid. Pepper was officially unveiled on June 5, 2014, in Tokyo.
2015–2018: Global Expansion
Pepper launched commercially in Japan in June 2015 at a price of ¥198,000 (approximately $1,600) plus a mandatory monthly service plan of about $360. The initial 1,000 units sold out in one minute. SoftBank then began rolling Pepper out internationally, including to the U.S. and European markets, where the robot carried a much higher price tag — approximately $25,000–$32,000 for the business/academic edition.
During this period, Pepper was deployed in HSBC bank branches, Carrefour supermarkets, Renault dealerships, Costa Cruise ships, French railway stations, and hundreds of schools and universities for STEM education.
2019–2021: Decline and Production Halt
By 2019, it was becoming clear that Pepper's commercial model was struggling. Only about 15% of businesses renewed their three-year contracts. The robot's limited conversational ability, inability to handle complex tasks, and high ongoing costs made it difficult to justify for many organizations. In June 2021, SoftBank confirmed it had "paused" production of Pepper, with reports suggesting manufacturing had actually stopped as early as 2020.
2022–2024: Restructuring
SoftBank reorganized its robotics division. The European arm was rebranded back to Aldebaran. SoftBank attempted to pivot the company, but financial losses continued to mount. In January 2024, a voice library based on Pepper's voice was released to the public via VoiSona, keeping the brand alive in a small way.
2025: Bankruptcy and Acquisition
In February 2025, Aldebaran filed for bankruptcy. A French court put the company into receivership in June 2025, and approximately 106 employees were laid off. In July 2025, Shenzhen-based Maxvision Technology Corp. acquired Aldebaran's core assets, including the intellectual property for both Pepper and NAO robots. Maxvision announced plans to continue development, particularly for eldercare, education, and security applications, and committed to establishing a French subsidiary.
2026: The Current State
As of February 2026, Pepper exists in a transitional state. No new units are being manufactured. Existing units remain in service at various institutions worldwide, but official software support and cloud services are uncertain. Maxvision has not yet announced a timeline for new production or updated models. For buyers, this means Pepper is available primarily through the secondary market — refurbished units, academic surplus, and specialized resellers.
SoftBank Pepper Specifications
Here are the complete technical specifications for the SoftBank Pepper robot:
Design and Build Quality
Pepper's design remains one of its strongest aspects, even years after launch. The robot has a deliberately non-threatening appearance: its rounded white plastic body, large expressive eyes, and child-like stature (120 cm) were carefully engineered to make humans feel comfortable. There are no sharp edges, no exposed metal joints, and no intimidating features.
The build quality is solid but not rugged. Pepper is designed for indoor use on flat surfaces — it cannot handle stairs, uneven terrain, rain, or rough handling. The plastic shell is durable enough for daily use in a store or school but can crack if dropped or struck. The 20 DC motors provide smooth, natural-looking movement in the arms and head, though the movements are deliberate rather than fast.
The three omnidirectional wheels are a standout design choice. They allow Pepper to glide smoothly in any direction — forward, backward, sideways, or rotating in place — without the awkward turning radius of wheeled robots with fixed axles. Maximum speed is about 3 km/h (a slow walking pace), which feels appropriate for a social robot navigating shared spaces.
The 10.1-inch chest tablet is both Pepper's control interface and its primary visual communication tool. In practice, this tablet does a lot of heavy lifting — displaying menus, showing information, running apps, and collecting input. It's responsive and bright enough for indoor use, though outdoor visibility is limited.
Software, AI, and Interaction Capabilities
Pepper runs on NAOqi OS, a Linux-based operating system developed by Aldebaran. The software framework supports:
- Natural language processing (NLP): Pepper can understand spoken commands and engage in basic conversations in 15+ languages. However, its NLP capabilities are pre-LLM era and feel notably dated compared to modern conversational AI like ChatGPT or Google Gemini.
- Emotion recognition: Using its cameras and microphones, Pepper can detect basic emotional states — joy, sadness, anger, surprise — through facial expression and voice tone analysis. This was groundbreaking in 2014 but is now standard in many AI systems.
- Facial recognition: Pepper can detect and remember faces, allowing it to greet returning visitors by name.
- Object recognition: Basic ability to identify objects in its visual field.
- Autonomous navigation: Using its laser sensors, sonar, and bumpers, Pepper can navigate indoor spaces and avoid obstacles. It maps its environment and can move to designated locations.
- Programmability: Developers can create custom behaviors using Choregraphe (a visual drag-and-drop programming tool), Python, C++, or Android. This made Pepper extremely popular in academic research.
The AI Gap: 2014 vs. 2026
This is perhaps the most important consideration in any 2026 SoftBank Pepper review. When Pepper launched, its AI capabilities were genuinely impressive. In 2026, they feel significantly outdated. The conversational ability is rigid and often frustrating — responses are scripted or drawn from limited databases, and Pepper frequently misunderstands questions or gives irrelevant answers.
Modern large language models (LLMs) have raised the bar dramatically for what people expect from a conversational AI. Some enterprising developers have experimented with connecting Pepper to ChatGPT or similar APIs, which dramatically improves its conversational abilities, but this requires custom development work and a reliable internet connection.
Real-World Performance: Where Pepper Shines and Struggles
Where Pepper Works Well
- Greeting and wayfinding: Pepper excels as a novelty greeter in retail, hotel lobbies, and events. Its physical presence commands attention in a way that a screen kiosk cannot.
- STEM education: Pepper is one of the best platforms for teaching robotics programming. The Choregraphe visual programming environment is accessible to students from middle school through university level.
- Research: Thousands of academic papers have been published using Pepper as a research platform for human-robot interaction (HRI), social robotics, and AI.
- Healthcare engagement: Studies have shown positive results using Pepper in elderly care facilities for companionship, exercise programs, and health literacy.
Where Pepper Falls Short
- Conversation depth: Extended interactions quickly reveal the limitations of Pepper's pre-LLM NLP. Users often become frustrated within minutes.
- Mobility limitations: Wheels only, flat surfaces only, slow speed. Pepper cannot follow a person up stairs, navigate outdoor environments, or move quickly.
- Reliability: Reports of software crashes, connectivity issues, and mechanical problems (especially with motors) are common in long-term deployments.
- Cost vs. value: At $25,000–$32,000 plus ongoing costs, many businesses found the ROI difficult to justify, especially after the novelty wore off.
- Elderly users: While studies show promise, older adults often struggle with Pepper's interaction model — the robot's cues can be confusing, and task completion times are significantly longer than with younger users.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Iconic, approachable design that puts people at ease
- Excellent educational and research platform
- Multi-language support (15+ languages)
- Large developer community and extensive documentation
- Smooth omnidirectional movement on flat surfaces
- Emotion recognition adds engagement layer
- 10.1-inch tablet enables rich visual interactions
- Long battery life (~10 hours active use)
- Thousands of published research papers and proven use cases
Cons
- Production discontinued — no new units being manufactured
- AI and NLP feel significantly outdated compared to 2026 standards
- Cannot navigate stairs, uneven terrain, or outdoor environments
- High original price ($25K–$32K) with limited ROI for many businesses
- Software support and cloud services uncertain under new ownership
- Manufacturer (Aldebaran) went bankrupt in 2025
- Limited physical manipulation — cannot carry objects or perform tasks
- Slow movement speed (3 km/h max)
- No legs — cannot sit, stand, or perform human-like locomotion
Pepper vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare in 2026?
The humanoid robot landscape has evolved dramatically since Pepper's debut. Here's how it stacks up against current alternatives:
Pepper vs. NAO
NAO and Pepper share the same DNA — both were created by Aldebaran. NAO is smaller (58 cm), bipedal, and more focused on education and research. It can actually walk, sit, stand up, and perform more complex physical tasks than Pepper, despite being much smaller. Both are now under Maxvision's ownership. For education purposes, NAO arguably offers more versatility at a similar or lower price point.
Pepper vs. Unitree G1
The Unitree G1 represents the new generation of humanoid robots. At $13,500, it's competitively priced and offers bipedal locomotion, dexterous manipulation, and modern AI integration. The G1 can walk, climb stairs, carry objects, and perform physical tasks that Pepper simply cannot. For anyone considering a humanoid robot purchase in 2026, the G1 is a compelling alternative — though it lacks Pepper's social polish and established software ecosystem.
Pepper vs. Tesla Optimus
Tesla's Optimus is designed for general-purpose tasks in homes and factories. It's full-size (173 cm), bipedal, and built for physical labor as well as social interaction. Still in early production stages, Optimus represents where humanoid robotics is heading — but it's not yet widely available for purchase.
Pepper Robot Price in 2026: What Does It Cost?
Pricing for Pepper in 2026 depends entirely on the secondary market:
- Used/refurbished units: $5,000–$15,000 depending on condition, included accessories, and software licenses
- Academic surplus: Universities occasionally sell their Pepper units when research projects conclude, often in the $3,000–$8,000 range
- New-old-stock: Rare, but occasionally available from former distributors at $15,000–$25,000
- Rental: Some robotics companies still offer Pepper for rent for events and exhibitions, typically $500–$2,000 per day
Important caveat: Purchasing a Pepper in 2026 carries risk. Without guaranteed software support, cloud service continuity, or replacement parts availability, buyers should factor in the possibility that some features may stop working over time.
Looking for humanoid robots with full manufacturer support? Check out currently supported models at Robozaps.
Who Should Buy a Pepper Robot in 2026?
Despite its discontinued status, Pepper still makes sense for certain buyers:
- Universities and research labs: Pepper remains one of the most-studied robots in HRI research. The massive body of existing literature, compatible software tools, and developer community make it valuable for academic work.
- STEM education programs: Choregraphe's visual programming environment is still excellent for teaching robotics concepts to students.
- Museums and exhibitions: As a piece of robotics history, Pepper is a compelling exhibit piece that can also interact with visitors.
- Hobbyists and collectors: At current used prices, Pepper is accessible to serious robotics enthusiasts who want to own and modify a well-known humanoid.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
- Businesses seeking reliable customer service automation: Modern alternatives with current AI and full support are better investments.
- Anyone needing physical task capability: Pepper cannot carry, manipulate, or perform physical work.
- Buyers requiring long-term support guarantees: The ownership transition creates uncertainty.
Where to Buy a Pepper Robot
Since Pepper is no longer in production, here are the best sources for acquiring one in 2026:
- Robozaps: Browse our curated selection of humanoid robots, including Pepper alternatives and next-generation models
- RobotLab: A former authorized Pepper distributor that may still have units or refurbished stock
- eBay and secondary marketplaces: Used units appear regularly, though buyer beware — verify condition and included software licenses
- University surplus sales: Check with local universities that had robotics or HRI programs
- Maxvision (future): The new owner may release updated units — worth monitoring their announcements
Programming Pepper: Developer Experience
One area where Pepper genuinely excels is programmability. The robot supports multiple development approaches:
- Choregraphe: A visual, drag-and-drop programming environment ideal for beginners and educators. You can create complex behaviors by connecting blocks that represent actions, conditions, and triggers.
- Python SDK (qi framework): For intermediate to advanced developers, Python provides full access to Pepper's sensors, motors, speech, and tablet.
- C++ SDK: For performance-critical applications and low-level control.
- Android SDK: Pepper's tablet runs Android, allowing developers to create custom tablet apps that integrate with the robot's physical capabilities.
The developer community, while smaller than it once was, remains active. GitHub repositories, forum archives, and academic publications provide extensive resources for anyone working with Pepper.
Pepper in Healthcare and Education: What Research Says
Peer-reviewed research provides the most objective assessment of Pepper's real-world effectiveness:
Healthcare Applications
Studies have found that Pepper can positively impact elderly patients' engagement and willingness to participate in health programs. A 2023 systematic review found that robot-assisted therapy using Pepper showed moderate improvements in mood and social interaction among dementia patients. However, the same research noted that Pepper's limited conversational depth was a significant barrier — patients who tried to have extended conversations often became confused or frustrated.
Educational Applications
In education, the results are more consistently positive. Pepper has been shown to increase student engagement, particularly in STEM subjects and foreign language learning. The novelty factor plays a significant role — students pay more attention when a robot is involved. Studies suggest this effect diminishes over time but doesn't disappear entirely, especially when Pepper is integrated into the curriculum rather than used as a one-off novelty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SoftBank Pepper robot still being manufactured?
No. SoftBank paused Pepper production in 2020/2021, and the manufacturer Aldebaran went bankrupt in 2025. The assets were acquired by Maxvision Technology Corp. (China) in July 2025, but no new production has been announced as of February 2026. Existing units are available on the secondary market.
How much does a Pepper robot cost in 2026?
Used Pepper robots sell for approximately $5,000–$15,000 depending on condition. Academic surplus units can sometimes be found for $3,000–$8,000. The original retail price was $25,000–$32,000 in the U.S.
Can Pepper walk or climb stairs?
No. Pepper uses three omnidirectional wheels and can only operate on flat, smooth surfaces. It cannot walk, climb stairs, or navigate uneven terrain. For a bipedal humanoid, consider alternatives like the Unitree G1 or NAO.
What programming languages does Pepper support?
Pepper can be programmed using Choregraphe (visual/drag-and-drop), Python, C++, and Android (Java/Kotlin). The Python SDK is the most commonly used in research and education.
Can Pepper recognize emotions?
Yes. Pepper uses its cameras and microphones to detect basic emotional states including joy, sadness, anger, and surprise through facial expression and voice tone analysis. However, this capability is limited compared to modern emotion AI systems.
How long does Pepper's battery last?
Pepper's lithium-ion battery provides approximately 10–12 hours of standby time and 8–10 hours of active use, depending on movement intensity and tablet usage.
Who owns the Pepper robot now?
As of 2026, Pepper's intellectual property and core assets are owned by Maxvision Technology Corp., a Shenzhen-based company that acquired them from the bankrupt Aldebaran in July 2025. Maxvision has announced plans to continue development and establish a French subsidiary.
Is Pepper good for education?
Yes — education remains one of Pepper's strongest use cases. The Choregraphe visual programming tool is excellent for teaching robotics concepts, and there's a massive library of academic resources and lesson plans available. However, newer platforms may offer more modern AI integration.
Can I connect Pepper to ChatGPT or modern AI?
Yes, with custom development. Some developers have successfully connected Pepper to LLM APIs (including ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini), dramatically improving its conversational abilities. This requires Python programming skills and a reliable internet connection.
What are the best alternatives to Pepper in 2026?
The top alternatives depend on your use case. For education: NAO robot. For general-purpose humanoid tasks: Unitree G1 ($13,500). For entertainment and exhibitions: Ameca by Engineered Arts. For research: multiple options exist. See our full guide to the best humanoid robots.
Our Verdict: SoftBank Pepper Review Score
After thorough evaluation, here's our rating breakdown:
Pepper is a landmark robot that played a pivotal role in bringing humanoid robotics into the public consciousness. Its design remains charming, its educational value is genuine, and for researchers in human-robot interaction, it's still a relevant platform with an enormous body of supporting literature.
However, the reality in 2026 is that Pepper's core AI feels outdated, its manufacturer went bankrupt, production has stopped, and modern alternatives offer significantly more capability for similar or lower prices. If you're buying for education or research and can find a unit at a good price, Pepper can still deliver value. For any other purpose, we'd recommend looking at current-generation humanoid robots instead.
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